Spirit of Speyside celebrates record-breaking year at Macdonald Highlands Hotels, Aviemore
A whisky festival has announced another year of increased sales, with nearly 9,000 tickets sold for the first time.
Celebrating its 26th anniversary, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival has grown in stature, establishing itself as one of the world’s largest and is a major contributor to the local economy.
Supported by 74 members and 43 partners, including EventScotland, part of VisitScotland, there are over 600 events across the six days.
In 2024, the festival announced a 23% increase in sales from the year before.
However, this year will be the first time the festival will come close to a record-breaking £450k of sales, including their Whisky School, which takes place over 4 days.
Before the festival ends, it has announced an increase of over 1,000 more tickets sold than in their 25th anniversary year.
Visitors from 37 countries descend on Speyside, contributing to over 50% of overseas ticket sales with Germany, the US, Netherlands and Canada purchasing the most, outside of the UK.
Billed as one of the largest international events of its kind anywhere in the world, organisers said the festival relies on the Speyside businesses and community to create a programme of unique experiences for visitors that are not just whisky aficionados.
From coopering masterclasses and BBQs to wildlife walks, the Dram Train, music events and canoeing down the river whilst stopping for a Speyside malt, the festival is packed with a range of diverse events.
Chairman Henry Angus said: “We can’t do this festival without the support of the local community.
“It’s vital not just for the businesses but also it’s there for the locals to enjoy the buzz for 6 days. With visitors coming from all over the world, it’s an opportunity to meet new people, have some fun, enjoy the stunning scenery along with a brilliant week of events.”
The festival kicked off in style on Wednesday with 91 events taking place, concluding in the evening with the renowned ‘Touch of Tartan’ Opening Event, co-hosted by Speyside Distillers, which this year was held at the Macdonald Highlands Hotels in Aviemore.
Over 300 guests gathered for an evening of celebration, where the winners of the prestigious annual whisky awards were also announced.
Rob Dickson, director of industry and events at VisitScotland, said: “The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival shows the vital role events play in Scotland’s visitor economy - supporting communities, creating jobs, and showcasing our culture to the world. It is part of an exciting portfolio of events taking place across the country that we are supporting to deliver a wide range of economic and social benefits and strengthen Scotland’s position as a world-leading tourism and events destination.”
Festival winners
Ambassador – Karen McGillivray
International Ambassador – Stuart Baxter
Unsung Heroes – The Whisky Awards Team: Linda Mellis, Carol Inch, Helen Mellis, and Pat Brazil
Spirit of Speyside Award – James Campbell (previous Chairman of Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival)
The Gold winner of the 12-year-old and under category – The Glen Grant 12-year-old
The Gold winner of the 13-17 category – Aberlour 15-year-old
The Gold winner of the 18 years old over category – Aberlour 18-year-old Double Sherry Cask
The Gold winner of the non-age statement category – Aberlour Triple Cask Matured
The overall winner of the 2025 Spirit of Speyside Whisky Award is - Aberlour 18-year-old Double Sherry Cask
